Nonspill fuel filler adapter

ABSTRACT

A fuel filler adapter has a hollow body having a base end with a flange extending outwardly therefrom, and a forward end, and has a length of between 0.5 inch and 2.5 inches. A bore extends through the body at an angle of between 2.5° and 15° so that the adapter can be fitted onto a fuel nozzle. Fueling spitback is prevented by a helical fuel path which does not block air from venting from a fuel tank. Air venting from the fuel tank exits through the fuel filler adapter via one or more venting channels.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to systems for transferring liquid from aliquid source to a liquid container. More specifically, the presentinvention relates to a nonspill fuel filler adapter, for used with afuel nozzle when filling a fuel tank with fuel, that minimizes fuelspillage. The fuel filler adapter is particularly adapted for in fillingboat fuel tanks.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The design of marine fuel systems is regulated by several sections ofthe Code of Federal regulations including 33 CFR §§183.501-183.590, Fueltank systems are required to not leak when pressure tested at 3 psig orhigher if the fuel tank is rated at a higher pressure. At the same time,the fuel tank system is required to have a vent system that preventspressure in the tank from exceeding 80 percent of the pressure marked onthe tank label. 33 CFR §§183.520. This regulation defines therequirement that the vent system vent excess pressure if volatile fuelsvaporize and cause a pressure buildup in the system, to reduce thechance of an explosion.

Fuel tanks in boats commonly have a closable fuel cap, an inlet, aconnecting pipe or hose, and a remote fuel tank which receives fuel viathe pipe or hose. Fuel is pumped into the inlet from a gasoline ordiesel fuel pump through the pump nozzle and then flows by gravity viathe pipe or hose to the fuel tank.

A common problem in filling such marine fuel storage systems with fuelis that fuel entering the tank displaces air in the empty tank, causingan outflow of air from the tank, up the hose or pipe and out of theinlet. The flow of displaced air bubbles up through the incoming fuel,causing blockages and instabilities in the fuel flow. The periodicbubbles disrupt fuel flow in the pipe or hose, and can cause fuel to bepushed back. These problems are most common in motorboat and sailboatfuel storage systems where it is common for the gas inlet to be placedon a horizontal surface, with the pipe or hose to be positionedvertically. Entering fuel travels downwardly, and exiting air travelsupwardly. With both streams in the same passage each stream impedes eachother's flow. A bubble of air moving upwardly can push on the incomingfuel and causes fuel to splash or spill out of the inlet. This problemis commonly referred to as “spitback.” Note that the fuel tank ventsystem required by 33 CFR §§183.520 is not effective to release air inthe tank during filling because the pressure is usually insufficient toopen the vent system.

Furthermore, it noted that prior to 2009, marine fueling stations werenot required to have the full tank fuel flow cutoff which is standard inautomobile fueling systems. While full tank fuel flow cutoffs are nowstandard, they are not effective to cutoff fuel flow when they encountera bubble of air and fuel typical of a spitback condition.

It is to be appreciated that the extent of the spitback problem varieswidely in both existing vessels and new vessels. Depending on theparticular design of the fuel system layout there may be no problems atall if there is a larger diameter angled fuel pipe leading from theinlet to the fuel tank which allows the streams of air and fuel toseparate and travel in separate paths; but if there is a smallerdiameter fuel pipe or a vertical fuel pipe or a fuel pipe with manybends then the problem of spitback is an inevitable problem.

40 CFR 1060.101(f)(3) became effective on or before Jul. 31, 2011 andattempts to provide a design requirement for ail fuel systems that thesystems be designed to avoid spitback:

-   -   Refueling. For any equipment using fuel tanks that are subject        to diurnal or permeation emission standards under this part, you        must design and build your equipment such that operators can        reasonably be expected to fill the fuel tank without spitback or        spillage during the refueling event. The following examples        illustrate designs that meet this requirement:    -   (i) Equipment that is commonly refueled using a portable        gasoline container should have a fuel tank inlet that is larger        than a typical dispensing spout. The fuel tank inlet should be        located so the operator can place the nozzle directly in the        fuel tank inlet and see the fuel level in the tank while pouring        the fuel from an appropriately sized refueling container (either        through the tank wall or the fuel tank inlet). We will deem you        to comply with the requirements of this paragraph (f)(3)(i) if        you design your equipment to meet applicable industry standards        related to fuel tank inlets.    -   (ii) Marine SI vessels with a filler neck extending to the side        of the boat should be designed for automatic fuel shutoff.        Alternatively, the filler neck should be designed such that the        orientation of the filler neck allows dispensed fuel that        collects in the filler neck to flow back into the fuel tank. A        filler neck that ends with a horizontal or nearly horizontal        segment at the opening where fuel is dispensed would not be an        acceptable design.

However, this new regulatory requirement does not alter the spitbackproblem experienced with many preexisting boats and other marinevessels. And even new vessels can conceivably still experience theproblem.

The spitback splashes and spills of fuel can be an environmentalproblem. A fuel spill into a waterway is a violation of Clean Water Actregulations. Furthermore, a spill in a marine environment is difficultto contain; it is often difficult to capture the spilled fuel and toprevent the spread of spilled fuel. A fuel spill can cause othereconomic damage, for example, damage the marine vehicle, docks, orfilling station. There are other potential risks such as fire hazardsand damage to human health from exposure to gasoline.

There is a need for a nonspill fuel filler adapter and a nonspill fuelfiller inlet to enable transfer of fuel from a fuel pump via a fuelnozzle to a fuel fill/pipe or hose/tank that reduces or preventsspillage. There is a need for a device that minimizes the volatile andharmful emissions of fuel vapor during the fueling process to reduce therisk of fire and exposure to hazardous substances. There is a furtherneed for a device that cooperates with the automatic shut-off systems offuel dispensers to maintain their ability to prevent overflow.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In order to overcome the deficiencies of the prior art and to achieve atleast some of the objects and advantages listed a fuel filler adapterand a fuel filler inlet are disclosed. The fuel filler adapter comprisesa hollow body having a base end and a forward end. The adapter forwardend is sized to be positioned into the fuel fill and fuel pipe. A flangeextends outwardly from the base end of the body and is sized so that itis larger than the fuel fill such that the flange prevents the adapterfrom falling into the fuel fill and pipe. A bore extends through thebody from the base end to the forward end at an angle of between 2.5°and 15° relative to a central axis of the body. Preferably, the boreextends through the body at an angle of between 5° and 10° relative tothe central axis of the body, and most preferably, the bore extendsthrough the body at an angle of 7° relative to the central axis of thebody. The fuel filler adapter has a length of between 0.5 inch and 2.5inches, preferably between 1.0 inch and 2.0 inches.

The bore is sized to receive a gasoline or diesel fuel pump nozzle, andthe bore angle is selected such that when the fuel filler adapter isfitted onto a fuel pump nozzle, and the nozzle and adapter are placed ina fuel fill, the fuel nozzle will be positioned with the nozzle tiplocated adjacent to and/or against the inner walls of the vehicle's fuelpipe or hose. Fuel which is pumped into the fuel fill will flow onto theinner walls and will tend to follow a helical path along the inner wallsof the fuel pipe or hose. This helical or vortex flow of fuel isadvantageous because a central part of the fuel pipe or hose will remainclear, allowing for air to continuously escape the fuel tank as it isfilled with fuel. Escaping air is then vented to the atmosphere via thefuel filler adapter. In this way, the problem of spitback is eliminated

The body outer walls have a curved cross-sectional shape, which ispreferably a circle, or more preferably, a partial circular shape havingcurved and flat areas. The partial circular shape is a truncated circlecross-sectional shape.

In one embodiment, the fuel filler adapter body has outer walls having asubstantially constant cross-sectional shape and a small flange and candrop into the fuel fill. In other embodiments, the fuel filler body hasouter walls has a cylindrical forward end or a conical forward end, anda large flanged base that seats on the fuel fill.

In one embodiment, the fuel filler adapter is sized to receive agasoline nozzle, and the bore has a diameter of 0.825 inch; preferably,the body is provided with in whole or in part with a red coloration toindicate gasoline. In another embodiment, the fuel filler adapter issized to receive a diesel fuel nozzle, and the bore has a diameter of0.950 inch; and the body is provided with in whole or in part with agreen coloration to indicate diesel fuel.

Another aspect of the invention is a fuel filler inlet provided for usein new boat construction or retrofitting. The fuel filler inlet isadapted to connect to a fuel pipe or hose and has a hollow cylindricalbody having a flanged base end that sits on a boat deck or gunwale, afuel inlet bore extending through the body at an angle of between 2.5°and 15° relative to a central axis of the body; and one or more ventingchannels extending through the body.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a top, front and left side perspective view of a firstembodiment of a nonspill fuel filler adapter of the present inventionadapted for use with a gasoline fuel nozzle;

FIG. 2 is top plan view thereof;

FIG. 3 is a front elevation view thereof;

FIG. 4 is a rear cross-sectional view thereof;

FIG. 5 is a left side elevation view thereof;

FIG. 6 is a top, front and left side perspective view of a secondembodiment of a nonspill fuel filler adapter of the present inventionadapted for use with a diesel fuel nozzle;

FIG. 7 is top plan view thereof;

FIG. 8 is a front elevation view thereof;

FIG. 9 is a rear cross-sectional view thereof;

FIG. 10 is a left side elevation view thereof;

FIG. 11a is a perspective exploded view showing a fuel nozzle, anonspill fuel filler adapter in accordance with FIG. 1 or 6, and a fuelfill and fuel pipe/hose;

FIG. 11b is a top plan view showing a nonspill fuel filler adapter inaccordance with FIG. 1 or 6, and a fuel fill;

FIG. 12 is a cross-section view showing the fuel nozzle, nonspill fuelfiller adapter in accordance with FIG. 1 or 6, fuel fill and fuelpipe/hose of FIG. 11 with fuel being dispensed from the fuel nozzle intothe fuel fill and fuel pipe/hose.

FIG. 13 is a top, front and left side perspective view of a thirdembodiment of a nonspill fuel filler adapter of the present inventionadapted for use with a gasoline fuel nozzle;

FIG. 14 is a front elevation view thereof;

FIG. 15 is a front cross-sectional view thereof;

FIG. 16 is a top plan view thereof;

FIG. 17 is a bottom plan view thereof;

FIG. 18 is a top, front and left side perspective view of a fourthembodiment of a nonspill fuel filler adapter of the present inventionadapted for use with a diesel fuel nozzle;

FIG. 19 is a front elevation view thereof;

FIG. 20 is a front cross-sectional view thereof;

FIG. 21 is a top plan view thereof;

FIG. 22 is a bottom plan view thereof;

FIG. 23 is a perspective exploded view showing a fuel nozzle, a nonspillfuel filler adapter in accordance with FIG. 13 or 18, and a fuel filland fuel pipe/hose;

FIG. 24 is a perspective view showing a fuel nozzle, a nonspill fuelfiller adapter in accordance with FIG. 13 or 18, and a fuel fill andfuel pipe/hose visible in a partial cutaway view, with the fuel nozzlelocated in the fuel fill and fuel pipe/hose;

FIG. 25 is a cross-section view showing the fuel nozzle, nonspill fuelfiller adapter in accordance with FIG. 13 or 18, fuel fill and fuelpipe/hose of FIGS. 23 and 24 with fuel being dispensed from the fuelnozzle into the fuel fill and fuel pipe/hose.

FIG. 26 is a top, front and left side perspective view of an embodimentof a nonspill fuel filler inlet of the present invention adapted formounting on a boat deck or gunwale and connection to a fuel pipe/hose;

FIG. 27 is a top plan view thereof;

FIG. 28 is a left side elevation view thereof;

FIG. 29 is a left side cross-sectional view thereof;

FIG. 30 is a top perspective view thereof showing the nonspill fuelfiller inlet mounted on a boat deck or gunwale with a fuel cap placedtherein;

FIG. 31 is a left side cross-sectional view thereof;

FIG. 32 is a top and front perspective view of a fifth embodiment of anonspill fuel filler adapter of the present invention;

FIG. 33 is a front elevation view thereof;

FIG. 34 is a top plan view thereof;

FIG. 35 is a bottom plan view thereof;

FIG. 36 is a perspective view showing a fuel nozzle, a nonspill fuelfiller adapter in accordance with FIG. 32, and a fuel fill and fuelpipe/hose visible in a partial cutaway view, with the fuel nozzlelocated in the fuel fill and fuel pipe/hose;

FIG. 37 is a top plan view showing the nonspill fuel filler adapter inaccordance with FIG. 32 located in a fuel fill; and

FIG. 38 is a perspective exploded view showing a fuel nozzle, a nonspillfuel filler adapter in accordance with FIG. 32, and a fuel fill and fuelpipe/hose.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring now to FIGS. 1-12, first and second embodiments of a fuelfiller adapter 20 is shown. The first embodiment of a nonspill fuelfiller adapter shown in FIGS. 1-5 is adapted for use with a gasolinefuel nozzle. The second embodiment of a nonspill fuel filler adaptershown in FIGS. 6-10 is adapted for use with a diesel fuel nozzle and isidentical in all material respects except for having a differentdiameter bore. Therefore, the first and second embodiments shall bediscussed together below. Fuel filler adapter 20 is a hollow body 22having a base end 24 and a forward end 26. The forward end 26 of adapter20 is sized to be positioned into a fuel fill 100 and fuel pipe or hose102 (as seen in FIGS. 11 and 12).

A fuel fill 100 is the inlet to the fuel system and connects via a fuelpipe or hose 102 to the fuel tank. A fuel nozzle 120 is inserted intothe fuel fill 100 and fuel is pumped to the fuel system via the fuelfill 100. The typical design of a fuel fill 100, particularly a deckfill, has two or three different diameter sections. In one example, asseen in FIG. 12, there is an upper larger diameter section 104 that cansealingly receive an upper cover plate of a fuel fill cap, then atransition 105 to a middle smaller diameter section 106 that is threadedand receives and engages with the threaded body of the fuel fill cap,and a transition 107 to a lower smallest diameter section 108. The lowersmallest diameter section 108 is sized so fuel pipe or hose 102 slidessnugly and sealingly onto the outer walls 109 of lower smallest diametersection 108.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the body 22, particularlythe forward end 26 of adapter 20, is sized to be positioned into a lowersmallest diameter section 108 of fuel fill 100 as seen in FIG. 12. Inother embodiments the body 22 and/or the forward end 26 is sized to bepositioned into the middle smaller diameter section 106.

A flange 28 extends outwardly from the base end 24 of the body and issized so that it is larger than a selected part of the fuel fill 100such that the flange 28 prevents the adapter 20 from falling into thefuel fill 100 and pipe 102. For example, in the embodiment where thebody 22 is sized to be positioned into a lower smallest diameter section108 of fuel fill 100, the flange 28 is sized to seat into the transition107 to retain the adapter 20 in the fuel fill 100. In the embodimentwhere body 22 is sized to be positioned into the middle smaller diametersection 106, the flange 28 is sized to seat into the transition 105 toretain the adapter 20 in the fuel fill 100.

The fuel filler adapter 20 has a length of between 1.0 inch and 2.5inches, preferably between 1.5 inch and 2.0 inches.

As seen in FIGS. 3, 4, 5, and 8, 9, 10, a bore 30 extends through thebody 22 from the base end 24 to the forward end 26. Bore 30 extends atan angle A of between 2.5° and 15° relative to a central axis of thebody 22. Preferably, the bore 30 extends through the body 22 at an angleof between 5° and 10° relative to the central axis of the body 22, andmost preferably, the bore 30 extends through the body 22 at an angle of7° relative to the central axis of the body 22.

The bore 30 is sized to receive a fuel pump nozzle 120, and the boreangle is selected such that when the fuel filler adapter 20 is fittedonto a fuel pump nozzle 120, and the nozzle 120 and adapter 20 areplaced in a fuel fill 100, the fuel nozzle 120 will be positioned withthe nozzle tip 122 located adjacent to and/or against the inner wall 110of the vehicle's fuel pipe or hose 102. Fuel 124 which is pumped intothe fuel fill 100 will flow onto the inner wall 110 and will tend tofollow a helical path 112 along the inner wall 110 of the fuel pipe orhose 102. This helical or vortex path 112 of fuel 124 is advantageousbecause it leaves a central area 114 in the center of the fuel pipe orhose 102 clear of fuel. Displaced air exiting the fuel tank as the tankfills with fuel can exit up the central area 114 without blocking theflow of fuel 124. Air can therefore continuously escape the fuel tank asit is filled with fuel. The escaping air is then vented to theatmosphere via the fuel filler adapter 20. In this way, the problem offuel spitback is eliminated.

In one embodiment, illustrated in FIGS. 1-5, the fuel filler adapter 20is sized to receive a gasoline pump nozzle, and the bore has a diameterof 0.825 inch. In such case, preferably, the body 22 is provided with inwhole or in part with a red coloration and/or the letter “G” or word“Gas” to indicate that the particular adapter in sized for use with agasoline pump nozzle. For example, a red letter “G” may be inscribed inthe adapter 20.

In another embodiment, illustrated in FIGS. 6-10, the fuel filleradapter 20 is sized to receive a diesel pump nozzle, and the bore has adiameter of 0.950 inch. In such case, preferably, the body 22 isprovided with in whole or in part with a green coloration and/or theletter “D” or word “Diesel” to indicate that the particular adapter insized for use with a diesel pump nozzle. For example, a green letter “D”may be inscribed in the adapter 20.

The body 22 has outer walls 40 that have a curved cross-sectional shape,which is preferably a circle, or more preferably, a partial circularshape having a curved area 42 and a flat area 44, which are sized asdescribed above to seat in the fuel fill 100. In the first and secondembodiments as seen in FIGS. 2 and 7, outer walls 40 are a partialcircular shape which is a truncated circle cross-sectional shape. Thetruncated circle cross-sectional shape is particularly effective as thebody 22 seats into the lower smallest diameter section 108 of fuel fill100 or the middle smaller diameter section 106, and a vent space 116 isleft between the flat area 44 and the surrounding walls of the fuel fill100. Vent space 116 receives exiting air which has been displaced fromthe fuel tank and directed up through the central area 114 of fuelpipe/hose 102 and releases the air from the fuel system into theatmosphere. In this embodiment, the fuel filler adapter body 22 hasouter walls 40 having a substantially constant cross-sectional shape.

Referring now to FIGS. 13-25, third and fourth embodiments of a fuelfiller adapter 220 is shown. The third embodiment of a nonspill fuelfiller adapter shown in FIGS. 13-17 is adapted for use with a gasolinefuel nozzle. The fourth embodiment of a nonspill fuel filler adaptershown in FIGS. 18-22 is adapted for use with a diesel fuel nozzle and isidentical in all material respects except for having a differentdiameter bore. Accordingly the third and fourth embodiments shall bediscussed together below. Fuel filler adapter 220 is a hollow body 222having a base end 224 and a forward end 226. The forward end 226 ofadapter 220 is sized to be positioned into a fuel fill 100 and fuel pipeor hose 102 (as seen in FIGS. 23-25).

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the body 222, particularlythe forward end 226 of adapter 220, is tapered. The tapered forward endis sized to be positioned into either the lower smallest diametersection 108 or the middle smaller diameter section 106 of fuel fill 100.

Body 222 has a flange 228 which extends outwardly from the base end 224of the body 222 and is sized so that it is larger than a selected partof the fuel fill 100 such that the flange 228 prevents the adapter 220from falling into the fuel fill 100 and pipe 102. Flange 228 is largerthan the opening in fuel fill 100. Adapter 220 has a length of between1.0 inch and 2.5 inches, preferably between 1.5 inch and 2.0 inches.

A bore 230 extends through the body 222 from the base end 224 to theforward end 226. Bore 230 extends at an angle of between 2.5° and 15°relative to a central axis of the body 222. Preferably, the bore 230extends through the body 222 at an angle of between 5° and 10° relativeto the central axis of the body 222, and most preferably, the bore 230extends through the body 222 at an angle of 7° relative to the centralaxis of the body 222.

The bore 230 is sized to receive a fuel pump nozzle 120, and the boreangle is selected such that when the fuel filler adapter 220 is fittedonto a fuel pump nozzle 120, and the nozzle 120 and adapter 220 areplaced in a fuel fill 100, the fuel nozzle 120 will be positioned withthe nozzle tip 122 located adjacent to and/or against the inner wall 110of the vehicle's fuel pipe or hose 102. Fuel 124 which is pumped intothe fuel fill 100 will flow onto the inner wall 110 and will tend tofollow a helical path 112 along the inner wall 110 of the fuel pipe orhose 102. This helical or vortex path 112 of fuel 124 is advantageousbecause it leaves a central area 114 in the center of the fuel pipe orhose 102 clear of fuel. Displaced air exiting the fuel tank as the tankfills with fuel can exit up the central area 114 without blocking theflow of fuel 124. Air can therefore continuously escape the fuel tank asit is filled with fuel. The escaping air is then vented to theatmosphere via the fuel filler adapter 220. In this way, the problem offuel spitback is eliminated.

In one embodiment, illustrated in FIGS. 13-17, the fuel filler adapter220 is sized to receive a gasoline pump nozzle, and the bore has adiameter of 0.825 inch. In such case, preferably, the body 222 isprovided with in whole or in part with a red coloration and/or theletter “G” or word “Gas” to indicate that the particular adapter insized for use with a gasoline pump nozzle. For example, a red letter “G”may be inscribed in the adapter 220.

In another embodiment, illustrated in FIGS. 18-22, the fuel filleradapter 220 is sized to receive a diesel pump nozzle, and the bore has adiameter of 0.950 inch. In such case, preferably, the body 222 isprovided with in whole or in part with a green coloration and/or theletter “D” or word “Diesel” to indicate that the particular adapter insized for use with a diesel pump nozzle. For example, a green letter “D”may be inscribed in the adapter 220.

The body 222 has outer walls 240 that are a generally hollow cylindricalsection 242 with a hollow truncated conical front end 244. Desirably,venting channels 260 extend through body 222 so that exiting air whichhas been displaced from the fuel tank and directed up through thecentral area 114 of fuel pipe/hose 102 is released via the ventingchannels 260. However, venting channels 260 may be omitted, and ventingwill be provided as air escapes between the hollow truncated conicalfront end and the fuel fill 100. A fuel fill 100 typically has a fuelfill cap attached to the inside of the fuel fill 100 by a chain, and thebody 222 will be prevented from seating in fuel fill 100 by the chain,this providing open areas through which displaced air may be vented.

Referring now to FIGS. 32-38, a fifth embodiment of a fuel filleradapter 420 is shown. Fuel filler adapter 420 is a hollow body 422having a base end 424 and a forward end 426. The forward end 426 ofadapter 420 is sized to be positioned into a fuel fill 100 and fuel pipeor hose 102 (as seen in FIGS. 36-38).

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the body 422, particularlythe forward end 426 of adapter 220, is generally cylindrical. Theforward end 426 is sized to be positioned into either or both of thelower smallest diameter section 108 or the middle smaller diametersection 106 of fuel fill 100.

Body 422 has a flange 428 which extends outwardly from the base end 424of the body 422 and is sized so that it is larger than the opening offuel fill 100 such that the flange 428 prevents the adapter 420 fromfalling into the fuel fill 100 and pipe 102. Adapter 420 has a length ofbetween 0.5 and 1.75 inches, preferably between 1.0 inch and 1.325inches.

A bore 430 extends through the body 422 from the base end 424 to theforward end 426. Bore 430 extends at an angle of between 2.5° and 15°relative to a central axis of the body 422. Preferably, the bore 430extends through the body 422 at an angle of between 5° and 10° relativeto the central axis of the body 422, and most preferably, the bore 430extends through the body 422 at an angle of 7° relative to the centralaxis of the body 422.

One or more venting channels 460 extend through the body 422 so thatexiting air which has been displaced from the fuel tank and directed upthrough the central area 114 of fuel pipe/hose 102 is released via theventing channel 460. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 32-38, the ventingchannel 460 is a relatively large oval cutout extending through the body422. The area of the venting channel 460 is sized to permit air flow toexit the fuel tank without restriction.

The bore 430 is sized to receive a fuel pump nozzle 120, and the boreangle is selected such that when the fuel filler adapter 420 is fittedonto a fuel pump nozzle 120, and the nozzle 120 and adapter 420 areplaced in a fuel fill 100, the fuel nozzle 120 will be positioned withthe nozzle tip 122 located adjacent to and/or against the inner wall 110of the vehicle's fuel pipe or hose 102. Fuel 124 which is pumped intothe fuel fill 100 will flow onto the inner wall 110 and will tend tofollow a helical path 112 along the inner wall 110 of the fuel pipe orhose 102. This helical or vortex path 112 of fuel 124 is advantageousbecause it leaves a central area 114 in the center of the fuel pipe orhose 102 clear of fuel. Displaced air exiting the fuel tank as the tankfills with fuel can exit up the central area 114 without blocking theflow of fuel 124 and out via the venting channel 460. Air can thereforecontinuously escape the fuel tank as it is filled with fuel. Theescaping air is then vented to the atmosphere via the fuel filleradapter 420. In this way, the problem of fuel spitback is eliminated.

In one embodiment the fuel filler adapter 420 is sized to receive agasoline pump nozzle, and the bore has a diameter of 0.825 inch. In suchcase, preferably, the body 422 is provided with in whole or in part witha red coloration and/or the letter “G” or word “Gas” to indicate thatthe particular adapter in sized for use with a gasoline pump nozzle. Forexample, a red letter “G” may be inscribed in the adapter 420. Inanother embodiment, the fuel filler adapter 420 is sized to receive adiesel pump nozzle, and the bore has a diameter of 0.950 inch. In suchcase, preferably, the body 422 is provided with in whole or in part witha green coloration and/or the letter “D” or word “Diesel” to indicatethat the particular adapter in sized for use with a diesel pump nozzle.For example, a green letter “D” may be inscribed in the adapter 420.

The body 422 has outer walls 440 that are a generally hollow cylindricalsection 442. A fuel fill 100 typically has a fuel fill cap attached tothe inside of the fuel fill 100 by a chain. Body 422 has a slot 470 toallow the chain to pass through fuel filler adapter 420 so that the fuelfiller adapter 420 can be seated squarely in fuel fill 100.

Adapters 20, 220, 420 may be formed of metal or plastic. In onepreferred embodiment, adapters 20, 220, 420 are fabricated fromstainless steel. In another embodiment, adapters 20, 220, 420 arefabricated from a durable plastic or a filled plastic such aspolycarbonate or polybenzimidazole (FBI). If a plastic material is used,the entire adapter 20, 220, 420 may be tinted green or red to identifyits use for diesel or gasoline respectively.

Referring now to FIGS. 26-31, another embodiment of the invention is afuel fill 320 provided for use in new boat construction or retrofittingin an existing boat. Preferably, fuel fill 320 is formed of metal,preferably stainless steel or aluminum. The fuel fill 320 is adapted toconnect to a fuel pipe or hose 402 and has a hollow cylindrical body 322having a base end 324 and a forward end 326. Base end 324 has asurrounding flange 328. Flange 328 is adapted to be seated on a boatdeck or gunwale 400 and is retained by screws in screw holes 329. Fuelfill bore 330 extends through the body 322 at an angle of between 2.5°and 15° relative to a central axis of the body 322. Preferably, the bore330 extends through the body 322 at an angle of between 5° and 10°relative to the central axis of the body 322. Most preferably, the bore330 extends through the body 322 at an angle of 7° relative to thecentral axis of the body 322. In one diesel fuel embodiment, the bore300 has a diameter of 0.950 inch and at least part of the body 322 iscolored green. In another gasoline embodiment, the bore 330 has adiameter of 0.825 inch and at least part of the body 322 is colored red.

Fuel fill 320 has a fuel cap 350 that screws into body 322. Cap 350 hasa gasket 352 to seal the cap 350 and prevent fuel loss. Optionally, body322 has a lateral bore 354 which connects to a fuel system overpressureventing system. One or more venting channels 316 extend through the body322 to permit venting of air through the fuel fill 320. In theembodiment shown in FIGS. 26, 27 and 29, the venting channels 316 aresmaller holes; however, it is more preferable that the venting channelshave a larger area than shown in FIGS. 26 and 27, for example,preferably the venting channels 316 have a size and shape similar to thelarge oval cutout 460 seen in FIGS. 32-25 to accommodate the air flowexiting the fuel tank.

The forward end 326 of fuel fill 320 is connected to a fuel pipe or hose402. As discussed above and as illustrated with respect to the adapters20, 220, the bore 330 is sized to receive a fuel pump nozzle, and thebore angle is selected such that when the fuel pump nozzle is placed infuel fill 320, the nozzle will be positioned with the nozzle tip locatedadjacent to and/or against the inner wall 410 of the fuel pipe or hose402. Fuel which is pumped into the fuel fill 320 will flow onto theinner wall 410 and will tend to follow a helical path along the innerwall 410 of the fuel pipe or hose 402. This helical or vortex path offuel allows a central area in the center of the fuel pipe or hose 402 tobe clear of fuel. Displaced air exiting the fuel tank as the tank fillswith fuel can exit up the central area without blocking the flow offuel. Air can therefore continuously escape the fuel tank as it isfilled with fuel. The escaping air is then vented to the atmosphere viathe venting channel 316. In this way, the problem of fuel spitback iseliminated.

It should be understood that the foregoing is illustrative and notlimiting, and that obvious modifications may be made by those skilled inthe art without departing from the spirit of the invention. Accordingly,reference should be made primarily to the accompanying claims, ratherthan the foregoing specification, to determine the scope of theinvention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A fuel filler adapter comprising: a hollow bodyhaving a base end and a forward end, with a bore extending through thebody from the base end to the forward end at an angle of between 2.5°and 15° relative to a central axis of the body; wherein the adapter issized to fit into a fuel fill and the bore is sized to receive a fuelpump nozzle, whereby the bore angle positions the fuel pump nozzleadjacent to an inner wall of a fuel pipe whereby fuel pumped into thefuel fill flows along the inner wall in a helical path with a centralarea in the center of the fuel pipe clear of fuel and air exits via thecentral area; wherein the body has outer walls having a cross-sectionalshape having curved and flat areas, wherein the flat areas provide aspacing between the body and the fuel fill for venting of air.
 2. Thefuel filler adapter of claim 1, wherein the bore extends through thebody at an angle of between 5° and 10° relative to the central axis ofthe body.
 3. The fuel filler adapter of claim 2, wherein the boreextends through the body at an angle of 7° relative to the central axisof the body.
 4. The fuel filler adapter of claim 1, wherein the base endof the body comprises a flange extending outwardly from the body.
 5. Thefuel filler adapter of claim 1, wherein the outer walls of the body havea substantially constant cross-sectional shape.
 6. The fuel filleradapter of claim 1, wherein the outer walls of the body have a varyingcross-sectional shape between the base end of the body and the forwardend of the body.
 7. The fuel filler adapter of claim 1, wherein the bodyouter walls have a truncated circle cross-sectional shape.
 8. The fuelfiller adapter of claim 1, wherein the body has a length of between 0.5inch and 2.5 inches.
 9. The fuel filler adapter of claim 1, wherein thebody has a length of between 1.0 inch and 2.0 inches.
 10. The fuelfiller adapter of claim 1, wherein the bore has a diameter of 0.825inch.
 11. The fuel filler adapter of claim 10, wherein the body isprovided with in whole or in part with a red coloration.
 12. The fuelfiller adapter of claim 1, wherein the bore has a diameter of 0.950inch.
 13. The fuel filler adapter of claim 12, wherein the body isprovided with in whole or in part with a green coloration.
 14. A fuelfiller adapter comprising: a hollow body having a length of between 0.5inch and 2.5 inches, and a base end and a forward end, the base endhaving a flange extending outwardly therefrom, the body having outerwalls having a substantially constant truncated circle cross-sectionalshape having curved and flat areas, the flat areas providing a spacingbetween the body and a fuel fill defining a means for venting of airfrom the fuel fill; and a bore extending through the body from the baseend to the forward end at an angle of between 2.5° and 15° relative to acentral axis of the body; wherein the adapter is sized to fit into afuel fill and the bore is sized to receive a fuel pump nozzle, wherebythe bore angle positions the fuel pump nozzle adjacent to an inner wallof a fuel pipe whereby fuel pumped into the fuel fill flows along theinner wall in a helical path with a central area in the center of thefuel pipe clear of fuel and air exits via the central area to the meansfor venting of air from the fuel fill to eliminate fuel spitback. 15.The fuel filler adapter of claim 14, wherein the bore extends throughthe body at an angle of between 5° and 10° relative to the central axisof the body.
 16. The fuel filler adapter of claim 15, wherein the boreextends through the body at an angle of 7° relative to the central axisof the body.
 17. The fuel filler adapter of claim 14, wherein the borehas a diameter of 0.825 inch.
 18. The fuel filler adapter of claim 17,wherein the body is provided with in whole or in part with a redcoloration.
 19. The fuel filler adapter of claim 14, wherein the borehas a diameter of 0.950 inch.
 20. The fuel filler adapter of claim 19,wherein the body is provided with in whole or in part with a greencoloration.
 21. The fuel filler adapter of claim 14, wherein the bodyhas a length of between 1.0 inch and 2.0 inches.
 22. The fuel filleradapter of claim 21, wherein the bore extends through the body at anangle of between 5° and 10° relative to the central axis of the body.23. The fuel filler adapter of claim 21, wherein the bore has a diameterof 0.950 inch and at least part of the body is colored green.
 24. Thefuel filler adapter of claim 21, wherein the bore has a diameter of0.825 inch and at least part of the body is colored red.
 25. The fuelfiller adapter of claim 21, wherein the base end has a hollow cylindercross-sectional shape and the forward end has a hollow cylindrical orconical shape.